Tamar Island Wetlands Tasmania

Tamar Island Wetlands - Tasmania

On the outskirts of Launceston lies the Tamar Island Wetlands, a unique estuarine ecosystem of mudflats, lagoons, and small islands teeming with plant, bird, and animal life. This serene natural reserve is a paradise for birdwatchers, photographers, and nature lovers, offering the chance to spot native birds, waterfowl, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Visitors can explore the 4-kilometre circuit walking track, which typically takes around 1.5 hours to complete and is recognised as one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks. Along the way, interpretive signs provide insights into the wetland’s ecology, conservation efforts, and the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this fragile environment. With its peaceful scenery, abundant wildlife, and easy accessibility from Launceston, the Tamar Island Wetlands offer a perfect escape into nature without leaving the city behind.

Start at the excellent interpretation centre, where you can learn about the cultural and natural values of the site.

Tamar Island Wetlands

Tamar Island Wetlands

Tamar Island Wetlands

Tamar Island Wetlands is one of the 60 Great Short Walks

of Tasmania

The Walk - 4 kilometres - 1.5 Hours - Grade

The walk starts near the Interpretive Centre, where you can collect an information sheet with photos and information about the birds you may see.

Then, wander along the flat boardwalks, flanked by tall native Tasmanian grass species as it meanders through the wetlands.

About 500 metres from the start of the boardwalk, along a track through the paperbark trees, you will come to a bird hide, where you can sit quietly and observe the wide variety of birds.

Wander along the boardwalk and over the footbridges, where you can see the kanamaluka/River Tamar and its diverse range of birdlife, including stunning black swans. Continue along the boardwalk to Tamar Island, where you’ll find picnic tables, toilets and a beautiful view down the Tamar Valley towards the peaks of Ben Lomond​. After a loop around Tamar Island, continue back on the same path.

Tamar Island Wetlands

Tamar Island Wetlands

Tamar Island Wetlands

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Directions to Tamar Island Wetlands

The Tamar Island Wetlands Interpretation Centre and the boardwalk for the Tamar Island Wetlands walk are on the A7 West Tamar Highway, just north of Riverside, approximately a 10-minute drive from Launceston.